CAQ Leadership Race Begins to Take Shape as Québec Premier Legault Steps Down

The Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) leadership contest is beginning to take shape following the announcement by Québec Premier François Legault that he will step down later this year, triggering the party’s first leadership race since its founding in 2011. Legault, who co-founded the CAQ and has led it through more than seven years in power, said he will remain premier until a successor is chosen and the party outlines its leadership rules—expected to be revealed later this week.

While no candidate has officially declared their bid yet, several key figures within the party are being mentioned as potential contenders. Justice Minister Simon Jolin-Barrette, known for his influential role in the legislature, is widely discussed as a frontrunner, while Economy Minister Christine Fréchette has also drawn attention from party insiders for the leadership. Other ministers, including Environment Minister Bernard Drainville and Public Security Minister Ian Lafrenière, are reported to be weighing the possibility of entering the race as they consult with supporters across the province.

At the same time, some senior party figures have already signalled they will not run. Education Minister Sonia LeBel recently announced she will step away from politics entirely, ruling out a leadership bid, further narrowing the field and prompting discussions about the future direction of the CAQ. Political observers say the race will be a test of Québec’s centre-right party’s unity and vision as it prepares for the upcoming provincial election later in the year.

The leadership contest represents a critical moment for the CAQ, which has governed Québec through a period marked by debates over language policy, economic priorities and identity politics. With Legault’s departure, attention now turns to who will succeed him and whether the party can continue its political dominance in a shifting electoral landscape